Powerplay 2.0 (2016)

POWERPLAY

THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL’S SPORTS MAGAZINE

VOLUME 2

STRATEGY ENDURANCE POWER KNOW MORE ABOUT SOME OF OUR BEST STUDENT ATHLETES

“OUR STANDING IS NOT A REFLECTION OF WHO WE ARE AS A TEAM. WE’RE GOING TO GET BETTER. WE’RE GOING TO IMPROVE.” - COACH TOPEX ROBINSON

Copyright

2016 by The LPU Independent Sentinel.

POWERPLAY is the official sports magazine of The LPU Independent Sentinel,

the official student publication of Lyceum of the Philippines University-Manila.

All rights reserved.

No parts of this book may be reproduced or used in any form without prior knowledge of the authors and the artists.

DISCLAIMER: The photos representing each sport and some page backgrounds were taken from Google Images. We do not own the copyright for these images.

The LPU Independent Sentinel is located at Room 123-A, Jose P. Laurel Building, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Muralla St., Intramuros, Manila.

E-mail Address: Facebook Page: Twitter Account:

lpusentinel@gmail.com www.facebook.com/TheLPUIndependentSentinel @LPU_Sentinel

ON THE COVER: From left to right: LPU Chess Team’s Romulo “Jet” Curioso Jr, LPU Taekwondo Team’s Aideleen Flores and LPU Men’s Basketball Team Shaquille Oswald “Shaq” Alanes.

Photos by Shawn Michael V. Lorenzo Design by Zyren M. Duazo

EDITOR’S NOTE For eight months, we’ve seen first-hand the battles faced by our teams — both victories and downfalls.

In my column in our first newsletter, I mentioned that the success of the Pirates is a collective effort of all teams. This time, allow us to deliver a collective report about their NCAA 91 journey.

On our part, it was an overhaul and it wasn’t easy. The publication had its share of setbacks and improvements to be done. Despite every hurdle that we faced, we strived to make the second volume of Powerplay Sports Magazine be filled with more newsworthy stories.

This wouldn’t be possible without the cooperation of the athletes, coaches, and Athletics Department who generously granted our interview and photo shoot requests.

I am indeed grateful and proud of this year’s Editorial Board—from the reporters, photographers, artists, editors, and advisers.

On behalf of the Powerplay Editorial Board, may you be inspired to conquer your battles by the stories you’re about to read.

Viva Larga Pirata!

Lauren Ian Marie G. Magtira Editor-in-Chief, Powerplay Sports Magazine Sports Editor, The LPU Independent Sentinel

EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

LAUREN IAN MARIE G. MAGTIRA

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

JAMES PATRICK V. DE JESUS

MANAGING EDITOR

ZYREn m. duazo

CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER GRAPHIC & LAYOUT ARTIST REPORTERS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

COPY EDITOR BUSINESS MANAGER TECHNICAL ADVISERS

shawn michael v. lorenzo bea patricia m. pelayo John Poliquit Angela Grace T. Matulac Jessica Jane I. Sy James Bernard S. Herrera Myrtle Joyce I. Baustista Rholynda Chryse E. Gonzalo Trixiana D. Gile Austin Bradley S. Magsino Kristine Faye V. Anajao Jillian Shayne L. Dancel Timothy Gerard P. Gucilatar Joanna Belle Z. Deala Mariztela Alyssa Quirubim r. Domasian venny-lou g. posada Joses Theodore G. Rosales John Christian R. Alvarino Jaenelle M. Ilagan Liwliwa B. Taclibon jennifer r. anzano marie jojina s. serrano

MR. GUILLERMO H.A. SANTOS MS. RENALYN J. VALDEZ DR. RONALD M. HENSON

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25

Pirates Basketball Team: Eyeing on the Championship Title Next Season Checkmate for Now, Kings in the Future: LPU Chess Team’s knife-edge battle in NCAA 91 LPU Swimming Team: Diving into Rough Waters

EXTRAS LPU ATHLETIC TEAM’S COACHES

Inexplicable Fighting Spirit: Pirates Badminton Team beyond Borders

PIRATES AT NCAA 91 GALLERY

Works for the Medal: LPU Table Tennis Team’s NCAA Journey Kicking Up High: LPU Taekwondo Team Getting Better Every Season

MYTH BUSTER: CHANGING YOUR BELIEFS ABOUT DIET AND HOW TO HAVE A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

LPU Volleyball Team: Spiking for Greatness

BACK TO SQUARE ONE

Upsets and Milestones: LPU Soft and Lawn Tennis Team in the local tennis scene LPU Pirates Football Team: Epitome of ‘One Team, One Goal’

SPORTS GOT REEL

LPU Track and Field Team: Keeping an Eye on the Finish Line

IDLE SUMMER NO MORE

DID YOU KNOW?

35 39 43 44 45 46

Beats for the Pirates’ Spirit: LPU Drum Squad LPU Pirates Pep Squad: More than just the tosses, flips, and shouts

28 27

LPU Pirates Swimming Team: Mallares Shines the Brightest

The Curious Hidden Warrior

32

30 29 Smashers’ Pride: Cordero and Castro as Court Slayers

Austria and Padillo’s double treat for the Pirate Paddlers

31 Flores: Blazing kicks from the new blood

Peñafiel: The Ace Rookie

SHAQ ATTACK

33

PIRATES BASKETBALL TEAM:

EYEING

on the

championship title

next season

LPU Men’s Basketball team fell short in the NCAA 91 basketball tournament as they finished their campaign at 9th spot.

The flagship team brought home a 4-11 win-loss slate in the overall rankings that is now reigned by Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights.

Despite its early exit this season, the team kept their heads up as they want to conquer next season’s new challenges by being fullyequipped and well-rounded. For them, it can’t be accomplished overnight although there will always be rooms for improvement.

1

BY ZYREN M. DUAZO

Team players’ perspectives

God, family, and LPU’s pride are the things that kept our team players inspired in every game. Thus, motivation is very important to them when they play. “Ako syempre naglalaro ko para kay God, syempre [for] family ko, lalong-lalo na sa nanay ko, siya lagi iniisip ko pag naglalaro ako,” said shooting guard Wilson Baltazar.

As to power forward Jebb Bulawan, he makes sure that they give their best all the time, while small forward Peejay Soliman shared that his idols in the professional basketball career inspire him a lot.

On the other hand, Baltazar, Bulawan, and Soliman admitted they had a hard time balancing their academic responsibilities due to conflicts in the game schedule since their games always fall during weekdays. However, they said they always do their best to cope with their lessons and make sure to be more focused in their studies during the off-season.

Aside from their academic competency and physical qualities, the Pirates also want to improve their communication as a team and their individual leadership.

Soliman, as one of the assigned captain balls last season, wants to maximize his responsibility by being more vocal to his teammates.

“Leader ka, kailangan gawin mo talaga ‘yun kahit sumama ‘yung loob nila. Sabihin mo ‘yung mga mali nila, ipakita mo sa kanila‘yung tamang gagawin,” Soliman emphasized.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

“Our standing is not a reflection of who we are as a team. We’re going to get better. We’re going to improve.”

- Coach Topex Robinson Travelling on the right track

Assistant Coach Jeff Perlas admitted that due to their late on-board with the team last February 2015, their preparation and adjustments for Season 91 is a little bit short. Unlike now, the team started to prepare as early as the start of the second semester and the individual skills of the players are the main concerns for the coaching staff to focus on.

Coach Perlas also emphasized that their player-coach relationship is something to improve by earning the trust of the basketball players through spending ample time with them.

Furthermore, the coaching staff is working on a series of tutorials for the players in order for them to cope with their lessons. This is done

with the help of the university’s academic scholars.

“We’re not just developing athletes or players, we want our players to be academically competitive in the future plus we’re trying to produce leaders din,” explained Coach Perlas.

Thus, the basketball coaching staff does not just want to enhance the players’ basketball skills but also make them academically competitive and effective leaders in the future.

Setting high standards

While the other coaching staffs are taking over on the individual skills of the players as well as their academic responsibilities, Head Coach Topex Robinson is helping them on improving their individual character

and attitude.

“I always tell them that you’re the sum total of every decision that you make. It’s gonna make you or break you,” said former PBA playercoach Robinson.

Aside from sharing his acquired basketball skills to the Pirates, he also makes it a point that he motivates and approaches the players well. Through his active, very dedicated coaching staff and enhancing the players’ morale, attitude and their relationship with their teammates, he thinks that winning the championship is soon to come for the Pirates.

“Our standing is not a reflection of who we are as a team. We’re going to get better. We’re going to improve,” he added.

When asked about what we should expect for the Pirates basketball team next year, Coach Robinson simply said, “I always set the standards high. We want to win the championship. Ang sabi ko nga, if that’s not my goal, I shouldn’t be here”.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

2

Checkmate for Now, Kings in the Future:

LPU CHESS TEAM’S KNIFE-EDGE BATTLE IN NCAA 91

BY JOHN POLIQUIT

Pirates Chess Team nearly swept towards its victory when it went for a clash against Arellano University in the NCAA 91 Chess Tournament Finals last September 19, 2015.

With sharp tactics, fighting style and planned maneuvers, the Pirates edged to make each piece move closer to steal the championship trophy at the Philippine Sports Commission. However, during the tiebreaker round, AU’s Kyz Llantada forced a de-

3

cisive draw, edging the Chiefs up to defend their championship.

Despite what happened, many AU veteran players were caught off guard and forced their moves to the defensive, as the Pirates, mostly two to three years younger than them turned the tables to a knife-edge battle.

The training and tactical attitude to defeat the other players proved their worth as LPU managed to end the 1st and 2nd round back in the top 4, seizing the ranks beside Arellano University, De La Salle-College of St. Benilde and San Beda College.

The Clash with the Chiefs

It was a neck and neck combat between the two reigning schools in the NCAA Chess tournament as the players recalled the nervousness and excitement in LPU’s attempt to claim the championship throne. “Kailangan focus ka lang sa board,” said Virgen Gil Ruaya.

During the final round, even a single draw could mean the difference between victory and defeat for both teams.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

Unfortunately, the Chiefs retained their championship after AU’s Llantada beat LPU’s Jan Mirano on the top board to conclude a 2-2 draw in the said round. This decisive loss proved critical to break the tie between LPU and AU that gave the Chiefs the upper hand.

Just like last year, it was a close call for the Pirates chess players, who have a unique prowess in outsmarting their more experienced opponents from other schools.

The Ace Players

Romulo Curioso, a freshman Information Technology major at LPU only got his first NCAA duel this year, but with his exceptional offensive strategy in moving pieces, he outmaneuvered even the veteran NCAA opponents who had six years of experience, sealing his clean record of 5.5 over 6, bearing straight wins without losses.

It was not only Curioso who took the lead to push the Pirates to the final round. Jonathan Jota with four wins and three draws, Prince Mark Aquino and Walt Allen Talan both with four wins and one draw drove the Pirates to the top four.

The Pirates garnered three out of six gold medals in the Seniors Division by key players Curioso, Jota, and Talan.

check his king. This was done by practicing each strategy, by encountering different scenarios and boards and how the players will work their way to victory.

The Pirates Chess Team had tune-ups with other schools and trained several days per week, just to make sure that their fighting styles are adaptable to any killer move an opponent could throw at them.

Surefire Strategy

Continuing Legacy

“Basta ibibigay mo lang yung best mo. Sa kada laro mo, susunod at susunod eh, so kung maganda ang performance mo, susunod ang premyo,” Jota shared.

‘Best’ not only means giving one’s determined shot to pounce the player off the board, but to find a plan to outwit him, with each piece essential to

Since 2013, the LPU Chess Team not only upstaged several schools in the NCAA but also in other chess competitions locally and internationally. They even garnered wins from the Gov. Amado Espino Jr. Open Chess Tournament, Philippine InterCollegiate Championships and the University Games.

They never went home from any competition empty handed. This morale intensified their fighting spirit in every tournament.

With the apparent perseverance of these young and hopeful chess players, the Pirates Chess team will steal the throne that they’ve been aiming for.

“Basta ibibigay mo lang yung best mo.

Sa kada laro mo, susunod at susunod eh, so kung maganda ang performance mo, susunod ang premyo.”

– Jonathan Jota

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

4

LPU Swimming Team: DIVING INTO

rOUGH WATERS

BY MARIE JOJINA S. SERRANO

Aiming to make LPU known for its swimming program, LPU Swimming team is now preparing to conquer next season’s challenges.

Swimming team head coach Chessa Pituk said their main goal is to improve the team’s ranking every season. She added that this will be done by enhancing their swimming technique through improvements in the speed and endurance aspects of the players.

As a regular member, LPU had the privilege to host the swimming tournament in the current season.

This, however, added to the pressure that the team felt during the trainings and the actual games.

5

Unfortunately, the pressure became a part of the team’s weaknesses as they failed to reach the top spot in the overall rankings this season.

Men’s team landed on the 9th place after tallying a total score of 44 while the women’s team finished at 5th spot after scoring a total of 129.5, far enough to reach the perennial champions San Beda College who scored 1, 374 and 1, 123.5 for men’s and women’s divisions, respectively.

Tracing its past

According to men’s team captain Patrick Morelos, they started in the least spot during their first entry in the tournament then rose to 8th and 7th place in the next two seasons.

On the other hand, women’s team was able to maintain their 5th

place since their first entry in the NCAA.

This season 91, second year BS IHM-CLOCA student Maureen Mallares was the only representative of LPU who reached the finals under the 400m individual medley relay, unlike season 90 when LPU had three finalists including Mallares.

Preparations and trainings

Coach Pituk said that in preparing for this season, the athletes undergone intense trainings every day and even included holidays especially when the actual tournament was approaching.

The pressure pushed them to improve more of their performance to show their competitiveness and courage to achieve their goals.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

“I always tell them that it feels good to win especially if you know that you gave your 100 per cent effort.”

- Coach Chessa Pituk

“During trainings and competitions, values such as discipline, determination, and perseverance are being taught to all LPU Pirates swimmers so that they will not only excel in sports but [also] in their lives,” Coach Pituk pointed out.

She also mentioned that all of the athletes have improved their attitudes and sense of responsibility. They became more attentive in trainings and more obedient than the other seasons.

just surpass the expectations, but also achieve their main goals.

“I always tell them that it feels good to win especially if you know that you gave your 100 per cent effort. If they really want to excel in swimming, they have to put their hearts in it,” Coach Pituk ended.

What matters now?

As for the LPU swimming team, they are focusing on every bit of improvement and they are getting ready to dig in more from their capacity of winning.

At this point, the team is aiming to improve their ranking but they know that they still have lots more to work on and setting a clear vision is important.

Women’s team captain Kristine Vicente emphasized that their goal is to beat their individual time speed every training and hopefully improve the team’s ranking.

For them, giving their best on every game is a priority so that they will not

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

6

Inexplicable Fighting Spirit: Pirates BADMINTON TEAM

beyond borders

BY ANGELA GRACE T. MATULAC

High expectations rose given that the LPU Smashers entered the final four last NCAA Season 90.

Losing some of last season’s key players and the arrival of rookies dismantled the team which ended their bid at third and sixth spot for women’s and men’s divisions, respectively.

However for our team, giving up is simply not an option. Despite the challenges they encountered every time they step foot inside the court, the LPU Badminton team always smashed it up to their extent.

Fronting ups and downs every NCAA season, they still keep their spirits uplifted, continues to strive for the better, and pushes themselves to their limits.

Pushing to their limits

Every athlete has his or her own limit, but for LPU Smashers, they preferred stepping out of the comfort zone.

7

Team captain Dennis Magpantay constantly tells his teammates to do their best and they should overcome pressure. “Sinasabi ko sa kanila lagi na gawin nila ‘yung best nila, pilitin matalo ‘yung pressure at wag matakot sa kalaban kahit sino pa ‘yan.”

Magpantay mentioned that lack of experience and maturity inside the court is one of their main problems during games and up to now, they are still learning to battle those troubles.

Flaws and faults are normal, but giving up is not the right choice. “Lagi kong sinasabi sa kanila, wag sila susuko sa laban, ‘di lang para sa sarili nila, pero para sa team at sa coaches at sa LPU,” Magpantay said.

For assistant coach Nelson Lambino, he always tells his players to give their all -- in their training or games. Lambino shared, “They should make sure na ginawa nila lahat ng makakaya nila. Para rin wala silang pagsisisi after ng game... and part ng competition ang matalo”.

Given last season’s pressure, they even had extra training sessions during weekends at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Lambino added that the number of players increased. Senior players frequently play with new players; this aids the rookies to know usual tactics and strategies inside the court.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

“Assistance from senior players was definitely a big help, nahahatak pataas ‘yung laro ng players,” Lambino said.

Motivation over Perspiration

Motivation keeps you determined to do great in every game. As how the saying goes, ‘Wake up with motivation, go to bed with satisfaction’.

Asked on what her motivations are during competitions, 17-year-old Girlie Cordero simply said that it’s the scholarship that drives her to do well.

“Aside from having fun while playing the sport I love, it’s earning a Bachelor’s Degree that I’m really working hard for.”

While for rookie, Diane Castro, her motivations solely include winning for the school.

This season may not be the time for our Smashers to become championship holders, but through their burning passion, determination and extreme fighting spirit, LPU will definitely reign in the badminton scene in the future.

“They should make sure na ginawa nila lahat ng makakaya nila. Para rin wala silang pagsisisi after ng game... and part ng competition ang matalo.”

– Coach Nelson Lambino

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

8

WORKS FOR the Medal: LPU Table Tennis Team’s NCAA Journey

BY JESSICA JANE I. SY

LPU Pirates Table Tennis team traced its beginning way back in 2009 when current head coach Raul Santos conducted a table tennis clinic in LPU.

Coach Santos said that the team first played for the Inter-Scholastic Athletic Association (ISAA), pioneered by different universities in Metro Manila including LPU. Their first and last year in the competition ended well as they notched the second spot, both in men’s and women’s divisions, next to the victorious Philippine Women’s University.

After ISAA, the team head on to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) table tennis tournament as a guest university on its first year and probationary for the next two years.

9

During the probationary years

On its first year as a probationary team in the NCAA, the Paddlers wrapped up their NCAA Season 89 journey by bagging the 9th and 6th place for men’s division and women’s division, respectively. The team had a hard time winning in the next season and ended up with the same rankings for both divisions.

Coach Santos said that their strategy during season 90 was just to retrieve the ball and not to smash in order for them to avoid committing errors. However, through heroic Zaira Escobido’s well-performed and consistent services and receives, the team still survived the tournament ending up at least not in the utmost bottom spot.

Improvements and challenges

The men’s team improved its record by climbing two steps higher

than their previous rank. They closed the season by earning the 7th spot in the overall rankings while the women’s team remained at 6th spot.

Although the team didn’t make it to the final four, what matters most to Coach Santos is that the opponents had a hard time in claiming a set from LPU and this is a good sign for a better shot next season. “They are daring now so alam kong malaki ang magiging tsansa natin next season,” said Coach Santos.

Also, Pirates got the spotlight in the NCAA community when the team showed how competitive they are now and exhibited their big improvement in playing. This was proven in the men’s doubles tournament as the combination of team captain Dominic Clyde Austria and Zyrus Graigbert Padillo defeated all the other teams except College of Saint Benilde which ended to an 8-1 slate.

“Ngayon nakita ko na very competitive and nakita nung mga bata na hindi

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

“We, players balance it. We play because we dream, we study because we have dreams, we dream because we have goals in our life.”

- Zyrus Graigbert Padillo

[a]ko nagbibiro when I say we train hard and everything kailangan gawin namin,” Coach Santos added.

During season 90, the men’s division defeated Jose Rizal University (JRU) and they became consistent as they have overpowered JRU again and adding Emilio Aguinaldo College

playing environment which was said to affect the performance of the players. The team had a problem with the violations called by the umpires during the tournament.

On the other hand, Coach Santos agreed that there was a big improvement in playing that was show-

(EAC) to the list. Although the women’s team is consistent to their 6th spot in the tournament for three seasons, improvements on their performances were very apparent as Nicole Halasan and Zaira Escobido poured powerful smashes and shown wellperformed services during their respective matches.

In this season, both teams encountered difficulties in the condition of the venue because of the overall

cased by the table tennis players this season and all the hard work in training were all paid off after the season 91 results.

Padillo admits that being a student-athlete also has its downside.

They attend their daily trainings early in the morning before going to their classes. Overfatigue is also a factor that even though their minds still want to train, their bodies are showing the opposite.

Yet, they focus on what they have to do. “We, players balance it.

We play because we dream, we study because we have dreams, we dream because we have goals in our life,” Padillo shared.

More goals are said to be in line for the team as they will conquer the new challenges in the 92nd season of NCAA next academic year, “We’ll continue to train harder and motivate each other to improve so that we’ll get up a few more ranks [higher] next season and may even be the [next] champions,” team captain Austria promised.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

10

KICKING UP HIGH:

TAEKWONDO TEAm Getting Better Every Season

BY JAMES BERNARD S. HERRERA

Taekwondo is not for the weak-hearted. It challenges the physical abilities and mental skills of each player combined inside the battlegrounds, where two brave warriors directly prove their strength against each other.

11

LPU Pirates Taekwondo Team is composed of brave students who are willing to get bruised and battered for the glory of our university.

These taekwondo jins welcome sunrise while they train every Mondays to Saturdays starting at five o’clock and usually ends at around nine o’clock in the morning. They also have extra two-hour sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays that run from one to three in the afternoon.

Led by head coach Brix Ra-

mos, the team ended their NCAA Season 91 bid by earning the 3rd place in the men’s division and 4th place in the women’s division which placed them at the second spot in the overall rankings.

According to their coaches, four team players shared the praise of having remarkable performances for this season and these are Aideline Flores, Jazmine delos Santos, Joseph Chua, and Mico Castanares.

Like most of the other teams,

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

their main goal is to ‘aim for the top’.

Coach Ramos keeps on reminding them of the principle ‘fight with pride and honor as if there is no tomorrow’. With the help of this belief, they were able to move from overall 3rd place last Season 90 up to 2nd place and garnered two gold, three silver, and two bronze medals this current season.

He also said that the team’s best achievement is when they were able to level up their performance and prove that they can do better every passing year. Everyone improved their own records and they

are helping each other to train their skills especially their stamina which greatly contributed in the results inside the ring.

Internal conflicts between players and coaches are inevitable, and they deal with it as a team in order to maintain professionalism between each other.

Being a part of the LPU Taekwondo team does not require one to be a black belter. Anyone who has the guts is welcomed to join, but only those who have burning passion, eagerness, and spirit earns their merit to stay.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

12

LPU VOLLEYBALL TEAM:

Spiking for Greatness

BY JAMES PATRICK V. DE JESUS

The LPU Men’s and Women’s Volleyball team were just steps away from reaching the top this NCAA Season 91 but the more experienced teams still dominated the Final Four. The Women’s team finished 5th place with four wins and five losses while the Men’s team finished 6th place also with a 4-5 win-loss record.

However, they didn’t refuse to give their best every game and their performances showed that they can also compete in the NCAA level.

‘Spiking’ Achievements

Before joining NCAA in 2011, the women’s team already made a name in the volleyball scene.

LPU was a member of the Women’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (WNCAA) before and they won 11 straight championship titles.

The team also competed in the Inter-Collegiate league where teams from NCAA and UAAP are participating. Our team showed that they can get even with bigger schools and win a title in the said league.

Meanwhile in the men’s division, one player also made an achievement in NCAA Volleyball last season when Kimmuel Samonte was named as the Best Blocker.

‘Preppin’ Up “Unprepared tayo nung sumali tayo sa NCAA; biglaan so ‘di pa kami ‘nun nakapaghanda ng mga players,” Coach Lontoc admitted with the shortcomings in terms of preparations.

Determined to become better and one of the best, the team works very hard through intense trainings and preparations in the succeeding seasons.

Coach Lontoc said that they undergo different phases of training. “Ang system ngayon ‘yung periodization, ang tawag doon ‘yung from off-season to training period, from training period to perfection period hanggang to gain period.”

The preparation of the team starts from March up to July, and it will just get more intense as the tournament gets closer to November.

Men’s team captain Mark Anthony Pecaña said that they also have to put extra work during holidays and even if there is a typhoon. “Grabe ‘yung pinaghirapan namin,

13

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

actually ang focus po kasi namin is mag-champion kasi alam naman po namin na kaya namin,” Pecaña said.

Aside from improving their skills, women’s team captain Charlotte Cruz said that they also focused on developing their mental toughness as well as their team chemistry.

“S’yempre binuo muna namin yung team, inisip muna namin kung paano kami magiging as one sa loob ng court”.

“Ganoon kami sa loob, tulungan talaga. Kilala na namin yung bawat isa kaya din di kami nahihirapan magcommunicate,” Cruz further shared.

All About Being Optimistic

The women’s team almost had a chance to enter the final four this season for the first time since joining NCAA. However, they had a tight loss for their last three games which led them to end up at 5th spot.

Although the result is unsatisfying, the team is still proud of their achievement. “Sobrang pinang-hinayangan namin… pinaghirapan namin ‘to eh, isang taon namin ‘tong pinursige,” Cruz said.

In the end, they are still happy and they know that they gave their best as a group. “’Di talaga kami satisfied pero masaya naman kami na ayun nga kasi kasama naman namin si Lord eh, alam namin na may purpose si God kung bakit nangyari samin ‘yun,” Cruz continued.

On the bright side, she shared that this is by far the best NCAA experience because they saw individual improvements and the eagerness to achieve their goal.

Taking the next step

This year, LPU is also planning to return in the Shakey’s V-League.

The team had its share of triumphs

“Grabe ‘yung pinaghirapan namin, actually ang focus po kasi namin is mag-champion kasi alam naman po namin na kaya namin.”

- Mark Anthony PecaÑa in the said league but had to leave it upon entering the NCAA.

However, the team is more focused in aiming for the top spot in its main league, the NCAA.

Pecaña thinks that their individual skills imporved but they need to develop on other aspects. He knows that the team already has a strong bond but what they need to really focus on is playing maturity as well as individual maturity.

“Kasi minsan pag inuunahan ng takot, inuunahan ng kaba, nandun na’ yung sa sarili mo na magda-doubt ka na eh, magda-doubt ka na sa sarili mo na hindi mo kayang gawin ‘to na baka magkamali ka lang, tas pagalitan ka. ‘Yun yung gusto namin itama ngayong season,” Pecaña described.

Cruz also shared that always understanding their coaches’ instructions is one of their ways in order to improve. “Sila yung nakakakita sa mga ginagawa niyo, sa mga pagkakamali niyo. ‘Di lang porket na sinabing coach sila sinasabe lang nila kung ano ‘yung gusto nila o yung gusto nilang ipakita mo kasi alam nila na dito ka kulang, na mas mag-iimprove ka dito kaya importante na sinusunod mo sila,” Cruz explained.

Adding up to the adjustments, there will be new players who will enter the team for the next NCAA season and most of them are fresh-

men and sophomores. Coach Lontoc said that he is looking forward for their exposure in order to gain experience and help the team in securing better standings.

Aside from developing the team, Coach Lontoc reminds his players, “As a player sabi ko nga anong legacy maiiwan niyo [to the next set of players] lalo na ‘yung ga-graduate, good example ba kayo? Yun ang bagay na dapat pinakamaganda sa isang player”. (With reports from Myrtle Joyce I. Bautista)

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

14

Upsets and

Milestones:

LPU Soft and Lawn Tennis Team in the local tennis scene

BY LAUREN IAN MARIE G. MAGTIRA

In a country dominated by basketball, boxing, and billiards enthusiasts, it’s no wonder why other sports are unable to get a share of the limelight.

However, Filipinos are ready to conquer the tennis scene and the promising players are not scarce -some can even be found within the walls of the city.

Glorious days weren’t consistent as the LPU Soft and Lawn Tennis team’s peak was last seen at NCAA Season 89 where they placed 4th overall. This 91st Season, the Men’s team ranked 7th in the Lawn Tennis while the Women’s team also ranked 7th in the Soft Tennis.

Going back to its humble beginnings, Coach Deena Cruz formed the team for the NCAA Season 88 with most of the players either recruits from the table tennis team or transferees from other schools. Now with 14 players, the team is determined to make a mark every season.

One set at a time

It starts with the basics. For an athlete, waking up early and doing a morning jog is a usual thing. Other people might overlook but it’s part of a player’s discipline.

Former women’s team captain Engellyn Caabay said that every six in the morning, the team members should already be present in their meeting place. Strict as it is, the 20

15

year-old shared, “Pag wala, iwan kayo.

Nakikita mo yung pag-push sa sarili”.

Training schedule varies on the members’ class schedules. They have trainings both in the morning and in the afternoon. Whoever is available is obliged to attend the trainings and is expected to go back to basics, especially with racket swings, reaction to the ball, and footwork. If time permits, some would go to the gym.

Caabay’s tandem with former men’s team captain Brian Eusebio is a good one with Caabay mostly focusing on the instructions and training; while Eusebio usually handled paper works and played as a lieu whenever the coaches are not around.

Rookie Christian Peñafiel said Eusebio is resourceful when it comes to training routines and equipment, “Kahit ano pa yan, basta pwedeng gamitin.” Eusebio shared that aside from the coaches’ instructions, they also research possible routines through the help of the internet.

Head Coach Cruz added that they started with strength conditioning which focused for at least two to three months. The following months focused on their individual skills and speed. At least a month before the tournament, the team focused on competitive plays and techniques.

On handling conflicts

Caabay admits that their usual problem is about class attendance especially when their season starts. However, Eusebio assured that they still try to attend makeup classes. Within the team, they also help when a member is struggling with special projects.

Eusebio said, “Hangga’t sa kayang ibigay,

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

ibigay, gagawin naman namin”.

In every team, individual attitudes also affect the situation but Caabay steps in immediately when the team’s having conflicts. “Nag-oopen forum kami. Mapag-uusapan naman.

Hindi yung buong team ang magaadjust para sa’yo. Pag may mali, hindi pwedeng i-tolerate. Gusto ko inaayos kaagad kapag may problema.”

On a brighter note, Coach Cruz implied, “Differences are always there because they are different people with different personalities that needed to be approached differently and appropriately.”

Caabay further shared that negative thoughts affect their perspective at times. Coach Cruz agreed by saying that they need to focus more on the team’s mental and emotional states.

“Pero minsan talaga hindi maiiwasan ang frustration, minsan yun ang mauuna,” Penafiel confessed.

Being an athlete, they are also being trained to improve their attitude, especially the initiative to train for self-improvement. Coach Cruz explained that she wants to develop the players’ attitude both inside and outside the court.

What’s next?

The team knows the reality.

“Mahirap maghanap ng work pagkata-

pos ng tennis career mo.”

Unfortunate as it is, one cannot play tennis endlessly. Time will come when your muscles are too weak to hit the ball, it will be a struggle to reach the net, the smash won’t be powerful enough; but the mind won’t wither.

Hopes of gaining a professional career may not be the team’s ultimate goal but they have a bigger dream in mind.

Most of them are having hopes of having their own businesses and being tennis instructors in the future.

But for now, the team knows they need to focus first in the college setting. Caabay acknowledged the team’s far-behind standings but she hoped that the LPU community will give the team a chance to prove themselves. “Gagawin pa rin namin ‘yung best namin. Mabalik o maiangat yung rank.”

Peñafiel agreed with Caabay noting that students must also give a share of their focus on the other teams and see the quality performance that they give.

Eusebio added that this is a part of giving back to the school, especially to their schoolmates. “Di nasasayang yung percentage ng tuition fee ng students kasi sobrang pinaghihirapan din namin. Dugo’t pawis.”

The competition is tight and

it will only get tougher in the following seasons but Coach Cruz stressed, “Next season we will be prepared for and we will make sure that they [team] understand what they need to do -that is to play their best”.

“Hangga’t sa kayang ibigay, gagawin naman namin.”

- Brian Eusebio

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

16

LPU PIRATES FOOTBALL TEAM:

EPITOME OF ‘ONE TEAM, ONE GOAL’

BY RHOLYNDA CHRYSE E. GONZALO AND TRIXIANA D. GILE

You wouldn’t call them the underdogs. They are in fact, one of the toughest teams in the NCAA Football. Not much stories have been spread about them but as they make more victories, the team is now making its way to the spotlight.

It was a triumphant bid after they placed as the runner-up last NCAA Season 90. Unfortunately, the LPU Football Team was blocked with a tighter competition as they concluded their NCAA Season 91 Football Tournament journey in the 4th spot in the overall rankings with a three loss-no win record in the finals.

The playing field is filled with challenges and LPU’s Football team started aiming goals back in 2011. They had a fresh start placing fifth on their first time competing in the NCAA. The following years up to present, they were always included in the top four.

Team captain William Dizon said that he

17

and his teammates are glad to be playing in an official tournament, under a professional coaches’ supervision, and representing an institution.

“Maganda saka masaya kasi maiisip mo ‘O, iba na ‘to’. Hindi katulad ng dati na naglalaro ka lang sa mga palaro, wala kaming coach. Ngayon sobrang iba na kasi iba’t ibang colleges and universities na nakakalaban mo. May school pa na sumusuporta,” Dizon shared.

He added that their families and the school serve as their motivation in the games.

Training for the tournament

Head Coach Popoy Clarino is strict to the players’ appearances up to the way they play.

“I don’t like seeing my players wearing sleeveless: dapat naka-t-shirt.

Rubber shoes hindi tsinelas. Sa buhok dapat clean cut. Kung ano itsura mo nagrereflect ‘yan kasi kung sino ka at paano ka maglaro,” Coach Clarino said.

The coach also strongly believed that LPU is the fittest team in NCAA because their training truly focuses on their physical capabilities such as stamina, endurance, and agility. Above all, discipline is a must.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

“Kung ano ginagawa mo sa training, malamang ‘yun din ang gagawin mo sa game,” Coach Clarino emphasized.

Moreover, the coach wanted to develop their technical abilities and have the players be comfortable with the ball. He continued, “Sa age nila, it’s all about developing the player for top level football”.

Striker Paul Dorego said that they also learnt from their senior players, “Yung attitude, ‘wag maging makasarili. Unahin muna yung iba bago yung sarili”.

Going in prepared

Before every game, Coach Clarino advises the players to thoroughly observe how the other teams play.

They are also required to internalize in order to condition themselves as they step on the field. Dorego said, “Sinasabi sa’min ni coach na ivisualize na kapag nasa loob ng game ma-apply namin kasi makakatulong”.

He added that it helps in achieving desired body movements like aiming for a goal.

Dizon further explained, “Puso lang sa paglalaro. Visualize niyo ang mga gusto niyong gawin. Saka tiyaga kasi mahirap talaga kahit training palang, lalo na sa mismong laro. Pero kapag nagagawa mo na yung gusto mo, sasaya ka tapos mawawala lahat ng pagod mo”.

Leave it all in the field

There’s a saying that all it takes is all you’ve got.

Every season, Coach Clarino only expects his players to play tougher and they must give their one hundred per cent in every game regardless of the outcome. Coach Clarino proudly shared, “They’re a young team with a lot of potential”.

“Dapat when they lose, no regrets... Hindi nakayuko, dapat proud pa sa sarili kasi sinubukan naman kung saan makakaya. Balik lang talaga sa training,” Coach Clarino said.

bond and the friendship within the team.

“Wala naman silang matatakbuhan kung hindi mga [fellow] players lang din,” Coach Clarino said.

They also help one another with academic requirements like projects and homeworks.

Dizon also said that it is very difficult to play when the team is not united and focused. “Ang isang player hindi niya kaya lusutan ang mga iyon [problems], kailangan talaga teamwork”.

“Kapag nagkakaisa kayo, ‘yung puso niyo iisa nalang ang lalabas doon,” he concluded.

One team, one goal

Individual players move on the field, but together they beat the odds.

The Pirates take pride on their unbreakable bond outside and inside the field. “Ang team namin nagkakaisa. Kahit saan. Kahit sa labas. Kahit saan pumunta,” Dizon proudly shared.

Since the players came from different provinces, they tend to experience homesickness. That’s why the team’s first priority is developing their

“They’re a young team with a lot of potential.”

- Coach Popoy Clarino

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

18

“We want them to be a total person so balance lang, career and study.”

- Coach Reynante Giron

LPU Track and Field Team:

KEEPING AN EYE ON THE FINISH LINE

BY AUSTIN BRADLEY S. MAGSINO AND KRISTINE FAYE V. ANAJAO

After being in the ninth place last NCAA Season 89, LPU Track and Field team rose to the seventh spot in the NCAA Season 90. As their competition gets nearer this Season 91, the stakes are high as they attempt to get their records better.

19

Hurdles continue to block the race but these athletes pass the baton thoroughly-- leading to recognizable performances.

With a mission of proving that this team is the next big thing to watch for, players strive harder and establish the team’s profile with an illustrious reputation.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

Pushing themselves

Every athlete has his own motivations, reasons, and ways on how to prove himself.

The continuous shine of LPU in other sports makes the team more motivated upon stepping in the tournament. Team capatain Ronnie Malipay shared, “Iniisip ko kasi ‘yung ibang team nag-iimprove eh, lalo na kami, gusto naming mag-improve para mapakita namin na ‘yung team track and field, hindi lang sa mababa”.

Malipay mentioned that he motivates his teammates with the help of God, constantly reminding them to never forget who gave them the skills and be always thankful to Him.

For Richard Manuel, a silver medalist in the pole vault category, his family and the top priority of having a diploma set his phase.

He shared that his dream is to be a champion and the goal is to make it happen. “May kasabihan naman na walang imposible sa taong nangangarap. Tumutulong [ako] sa team para makapagbigay ng karangalan sa school para maka-graduate man ako dito sa LPU, at least may maiwan akong alaala dito.”

However, many things are in need to be adjusted before a team gets the place that they are aiming for.

Ronel Macali, the team’s lone track and field player from the Dumagats, said that they have intensified their training method from last year. “Nagdagdag po siya [Coach] ng araw [for training]. Mas nalalapit na ang NCAA, mas pinagtutukan namin ng pansin ang training,” Macali shared.

Coach Reynante Giron made extra preparations for this coming season. According to him, the target being at 4th or 3rd place this 91st season is realistic. He added that letting his athletes to be dependent on themselves is his style-- less supervision but the players know what they are doing. The practice of not just making his players a valuable player rather a complete person is what he promotes on his team along with assistant coaches, believing that this will lead them to success. “We want them to be a total person so balance lang, career and study,” he said.

The hard work so far paid off as the athletes earned places on vari-

ous competitions. Six members were qualified to compete for this year’s Philippine National Games and two members were now part of the Philippine National Team.

Taking the next track

The LPU program continues to prove on being great particularly on producing high caliber and well– competitive individuals. The Philippine Amateur Track and Field Association (PATAFA) selected two members from the LPU Track and Field Team to be part of the national team —they are Ronnie Malipay and Jojo Bermudo.

Malipay shared he did not expect to achieve this huge accomplishment. “Hindi namin ine-expect na kukunin kami sa National pero masaya naman kasi ‘yung allowance namin doon binibitbit na lang namin para sa sarili namin.”

Bermudo relayed his messages for teammates and coaches. “Galingan nila sa training at [i]bigay nila ang best nila sa darating na [games].

Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga coach ko dahil kung wala sila wala rin ako dito.”

These two superb athletes along with the rest of the team continue to prove how eager and intense Lyceans are especially on achieving different goals.

Bermudo and Malipay also served as an inspiration to their teammates, leading them to dream bigger and be the next players to be given a chance to compete internationally for the pride of the country.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

20

SEASON 88 Start of probationary year.

LPU became the tenth NCAA team after LPU completed all the requirements needed.

A Tennis team was formed under the guidance of Coach Deena Cruz and Jerick Tenorio as team captain.

LPU Taekwondo Team and Table Tennis Team debuted in the league.

SEASON 87 LPU left Inter-Scholastic Athletic Association (ISAA) and joined NCAA as a guest team.

First game, first win: Men’s Basketball team won against CSB Blazers, 75-63.

Lady Pirates placed fifth in the Volleyball tournament.

Participated in six events only: basketball, volleyball, athletics, football, cheerdance, swimming.

Ms. Brittany Starling was LPU’s first muse and placed second at the Ms. NCAA.

21

SEAS

Greatest record o 8-10 ove

LPU Pep Squ

Ms. Aira Inoue claime Basketball team got it Lions since

Pirates became the fi Knights and Red Lions f the namesake

Mandie Boy Lunag of awarded as th

Did you know

?

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

SON 89

of the Basketball Team: erall slate .

uad placed 4th.

ed the throne of Ms. NCAA ts first win against SBC Red e joining NCAA.

first team to beat the CSJL for the season and earning e, ‘Giant slayers’.

f the Football team was he Best Defender.

d u w

?

SEASON 90 Last year as probationary member.

Pirates smashers made history after both men’s and women’s teams entered the final four.

Ms. Mharyel Tapia was crowned as 2nd runner-up in the Ms. NCAA. LPU Football team and Chess teams placed second Taekwondo team placed third overall.

SEASON 91 2015: LPU is recognized as a full-pledgeD member of the NCAA for Season 91.

Basketball had a new coaching staff with Topex Robinson as the new HEAD coach.

Ms. Rycca Timog was named as Ms. NCAA First Princess In the NCAA All-Stars, Jebb Bulawan won in the Slam Dunk Competition while Wilson Baltazar seized the second spot in the three-point shootout .

Taekwondo and Chess team clinched 2nd place overall.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

22

Beats for the Pirates’ Spirit:

LPU Drum Squad

BY TIMOTHY GERARD P. GUCILATAR

With the beat of their drums and their bodies moving along the rhythm, a Pirates squadron uplifts the teams’ fighting spirit towards victory.

Acting as the confidence booster of our athletes, their call for support initiates the thrilling ‘Viva Larga Pirata!’ cheer of the LPU community.

Their participation in the backlines proved that they ignite the roaring jolts heard from the crowd that motivated the athletes in their games.

Court Presence

drum squad.

23

Established in 2009, the LPU Drum Squad was born after LPU had formed the Inter-Scholastic Athletic Association (ISAA) and decided to be a guest team on NCAA in 2011 then eventually became an official member in 2015.

The LPU Drum Squad is considered as one of the most prominent groups in LPU as their role in intercollegiate games is essential during the actual games.

When the players feel tired in the middle of the game, while some lose their focus thus the subsequent inconsistencies, it is the voice of the university that will emblaze their athletic spirits—this is then usually initiated by the

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

“Pag walang drum squad, parang ang tahimik. Pag may game tapos walang drummer yung isang team tapos may drummer yung team ng ibang school, titigan mo yung crowd nila. Kami kasi yung nagmomotivate para sa pag-cheer sa mga players. Pag wala kami, walang buhay,” said rookie member John Villanueva.

The school provides their uniform, allowance, scholarship. Sometimes, food allowance is given to them during games but on regular school days, there is none. “Minsan bitin po. Laging limited ‘yung sa’min. During game ‘di kami pinoprovide ng tubig or food. Minsan pera pa namin,” Villanueva confessed.

On the other hand, the school tries to upgrade by investing in new tools and instruments. “Dati po hirap po kami sa gamit pero ngayon, umookay naman po,” said LPU-DS President Sean Patrick Evangelista.

The will to make the beat

Outside the court, the LPU Drum Squad remains to be a relentless support system to the teams. Students with night classes will hear the drum squad training at the gymnasium starting at six o’clock in the evening or earlier, then finishes before nine.

Their regular training does not affect their academics, though some of them struggle because of their tight schedule.

The squad is highly motivated

to continue because of their bond: tropa and samahan, treating the drum squad as their second family, and as a stress reliever. “Kunwari pag may problema ka or galit ka, palo ka lang tapos magiging magaan feeling mo,” Angelo Adriatico added.

The LPU Drum Squad never fails to walk by their vision of excellence and discipline. Their struggle and perseverance pay off with performances that motivate the Lycean spirit and empower the athletes into reaching the top.

Not for competition yet doing its best

LPU Drum Squad is open to anyone who is willing to learn. “Wala po kaming audition. Basta matira matibay,” LPU-DS Secretary Jayanika Plaza emphasized. On the process of training for membership eligibility which takes three semesters to fulfill, the number of recruits are great in numbers.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

24

LPU PIRATES PEP SQUAD:

More than just the

tosses, flips, and chants

BY JILLIAN SHAYNE L. DANCEL

With its 40 talented crew, the six-year old cheering squad of LPU Manila, also known as the LPU Pirates Pep Squad, devoted themselves in supporting the school towards success.

Yet, little did we know that this team started from the very bottom.

25

Originally, LPU does not have a cheerleading team. There is no recognized squad until Kathryn Kim Torres put all her efforts to fight for the need of having a team that will uplift the Lycean spirit.

It all started with then 19 yearold Broadcasting student and her team. Even if it is unofficial, they eagerly supported the LPU Men’s Basketball team on their Nike Summer League journey. With Torres’ team cheering on

the sidelines, little-by-little, the boys paved their way into consecutive wins and into grasping the title from then defending champion De La Salle University-Manila.

Due to this, they have shown and proved the importance of having a cheering squad. Torres then proposed the team to the administration and on 2008, the LPU Pep Squad was born.

Three years after its establish-

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

"It will be our greatest foundation to do and [to] execute the stunts well.”

- Kalvin Mangubat ment, the LPU Pep Squad started its journey in the National Collegiate Athletic Association ranking 10th out of 12 universities at the end of season 87.

The next year, the squad's rigorous efforts paid off. Their rank improved to 6th place. They have not only maintained their stunning moves but also improved their amazing stunts on the following years.

In 2013, their standing was raised to rank five and in 2014, they bagged the 4th spot.

However, their standing went three ranks down in NCAA Season 90 Cheerleading competition but they shared how determined they are to work very hard and recover from their recent loss.

In every drill, it takes full participation of every team member, assistance of the officers, and guidance of the coach to come up with a routine that will make LPU as one of the top schools in the NCAA Cheerleading competition. “It will be our greatest foundation to do and [to] execute the stunts well," said Team Captain Kalvin Mangubat.

Head Coach Zar Semsem lets them suggest and execute the stunts that may improve their routines. Not settling to what they already have, Coach Semsem believes that their routines still have to be creative, clean, and innovative.

Co-Captain Kenneth Evangelista supported, “Syempre, kailangan naming baguhin yun [routine] kasi hindi lang naman kami yung lumalakas. Dapat makipagsabayan kami or mas hihigitan pa namin sila sa ipapakita namin”.

The pep squad wants to show that they are aiming for a higher rank this season, beating other schools by removing distractions and focusing mainly in being more productive.

Coach Semsem emphasized, “Syempre, yun muna yung goal namin na magkaroon ng rank. As a coach, gusto ko munang magkaplace kami sa Big League namin before we go out the league.”

As cheerleaders, time management is a great deal for them to be able to balance both their studies and

their duties as a cheerleader. “Pinasok namin yung ganitong trabaho so dapat alam namin kung paano namin ima-manage yung time namin,” Evangelista added.

Mangubat also said that as the leader of the team, he encourages his team to be disciplined both in studies and training by being a role model to them. “During training, show them that you have a strong will to pursue excellence [and] then the rest will follow”.

Even though they are the cheerleaders, they still have their own dose of inspiration -- their fellow Lyceans willingly participating in every cheer. Mangubat proudly shared, “We have to show our passion and dedi-

cation to boost their energy. We add value to Lycean pride through our own cheers”.

At this point, the whole squad is considering everything that will help them improve their routines and other stunts to climb towards the highest rank in the NCAA Cheerleading Competition this coming March.

More than that, the team hopes that the community will see that cheerleading is also a sport and has a vital role to play in university’s athletic community. Mangubat concluded, “We don't just cheer for our school but we also compete with other schools to be the best cheerleading team in the whole NCAA”.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

26

The Curious Hidden Warrior

BY JOHN POLIQUIT

Shy, but surely not to be underestimated – Romulo Curioso Jr. reigns as the chess player of the year, known for slashing through the ranks in the recent NCAA Chess Tournament and outperforming his more experienced veteran opponents from various schools.

Romulo Curioso is just one of the three LPU chess players, alongside Walt Allen Talan and Jonathan Jota who won gold medals for earning average points in the tournament. He, along with his other fellow chess players, prep up before the game by analyzing what are the certain maneuvers needed for each piece for every scenario, and to predict what are the certain strategies more likely to be put up by their opponents.

During the tournament that took place at the Philippine Sports Commission, Manila from August 8 to September 17 last year, Romulo won four wins and only one draw, garnering a

27

90% average and four and a half points.

Recently, the 16-year-old joined several competitions with the Pirates Chess Team such as the 2015 Philippine International Chess Championships, and also won second place in the Subic Age-Group Chess Tournament.

Like most exceptional players, Curioso, or Jet, as some call him is exposed to the battlefield of chess at a young age in his hometown, Cabanatuan City.

This experience solidified his skill as the years passed with every chessboard that he has encountered.

This earned him the prowess to qualify and enter the Palarong Pambansa, where he represented Nueva Ecija High School and Central Luzon.

Unlike most of his older opponents, Curioso delivers on the battlefield and packs more teeth in checking his older foes.

Even if he is just a freshman and his opponent is three to four years older than him, his age did not be-

come a disadvantage, and outsmarted every rival he has encountered, if not forcing it to a draw.

This is something that impressed many in his game, especially his coach, Christopher Cunanan, who makes sure that they do not go home without a medal.

Whether if the enemy is on playing steady on the defense with his pieces or on being aggressive in invading the chessboard, Curioso knows that each move can mean a great win or a massive loss, and with that, he moves each piece precisely into place, according to what tactic is on the table.

Though he is quiet, calm and always in pace, Curioso claimed each chess tile with a devastating attack and an impenetrable defense. There is no doubt, that Curioso has many years ahead in representing our school, and there will be many foes still out there who do not know what he is capable of.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

LPU Pirates Swimming Team:

MALLARES SHINES THE BRIGHTEST

BY MARIE JOJINA S. SERRANO

“Motivation ko is maka-place, ma-improve yung time ko at maging maganda ang performance ko.”

Nothing is indeed impossible when you want to achieve something. Nothing can stop you because you will find a way.

For Maureen Mallares, an injury didn’t hinder her from becoming one of the finalists in the 91st NCAA Swimming Tournament.

The best player from the LPU Swimming Team had a stress fracture that led her to 14 days of therapy before the competition.

Fortunately, the Manila raised swimmer was able to compete and bagged the 8th place during the individual 400m freestyle category. Her mindset—although aiming to beat her opponents—is to disregard what she sees in them. She wanted to focus in beating her own record.

It is notable that even last

Season 90, Mallares displayed a good performance when she also made it to the finals together with two other teammates.

The 18 year-old athlete said that since elementary, swimming is already a part of her life with freestyle and breaststoke as her main categories.

For her, the daily trainings and the proper diet are just some of the things she’s required to deal with.

Mallares shared, “Kailangan maging disiplinado, bawal mo gawin yung mga bawal tulad ng [pag-inom] ng softdrinks, [pagkain] ng sweets, alak.

Proper diet at tamang tulog talaga ang kailangan”.

Mallares admitted that before, she is not that active during their trainings but because of her teammates, she was energized and then consis-

tently attended their trainings. She confessed, “’Di po ako ganon kasipag [mag-training], pero dahil sa teammates ko, nahahatak ako sa kanila, sila yung nagbibigay ng energy sa’kin para mag-training”.

As a student-athlete, the Cruise Line Operation in Culinary Arts major said that it is not easy balancing her time for sports and academics.

However, she is still motivated when she thinks of the benefits of having this kind of responsibility. “Motivation ko is maka-place [rank], ma-improve yung time ko at maging maganda ang performance ko.”

Playing for the Pirates is not an easy task but Mallares is determined to hit the waves and achieve her goals – to help her family, support her studies, and be more fascinated with her hobby, swimming.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

28

Smashers’ Pride:

Cordero and Castro as Court Slayers

BY ANGELA GRACE T. MATULAC

“It doesn’t matter if I win or lose, what matters most is that I give my best for the satisfaction of the audience and the coaches.” - CORDERO In every team, there will definitely be outstanding players because of their exemplary skills. For the Pirates Badminton Team, Girlie Cordero and Diane Castro are in the spotlight.

These two have shown excellent gameplays despite the pressure, fear, and exhaustion.

Recalling their season 91 journey, the women’s team of LPU Smashers landed at the 3rd spot through the efforts of these girls’ impressive performance.

Cordero is a second year Customs Administration student raised in Oriental Mindoro. According to her, confidence and trust with her abilities are the key strategies during competitions and obeying instructions and advice from her coaches are also observed.

Downfalls are always present and as an athlete, you have to be smart and brave enough to rise again.

29

In order to improve, Cordero shared that she had to practice self-discipline and focus on her weak points. She added that monitoring health is also a factor in self-improvement. “Enough time for rest and exercise are part of the routine,” she emphasized.

For Cordero, prayers give her strength during competitions because it makes her feel stronger and believe that she can do whatever it takes to win.

“My mindset in every game is to focus. It doesn’t matter if I win or lose, what matters most is that I give my best for the satisfaction of the audience and the coaches,” she concluded.

Part of a team’s strategy is to recruit excellent players and one of LPU’s newest catch is Diane Castro, a 20-year old Cruise Line Operations Major in Culinary Arts student.

According to her, she was encouraged to play badminton by her fa-

mily and the people who believed in her.

With exceptional strategies and gameplays during her first NCAA Season, Diane shared how she prepared for the matches.

“In every game you have to have a mindset to win the game. Before the game I do warm ups and stretching and I never forget to pray.”

Besides those, hard on-court training also gave her an edge to really outclass games.

“I train myself four times a week. During training, I play harder than I used to and I always give my best,” she added.

With regards to her strategy, she shared that she tends to know her opponent and distinguish his or her weaknesses.

As a first timer in the NCAA league, she assured that she will give her hundred percent best in order to help the team on becoming successful in its goals, hence, for her to learn and improve.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

"Mindset ko lalaban ako hindi lang para sa coach ko, sa pamilya, para sa school din, para sa Lyceum. Sabi ko nga, bilog pa din ang bola, kaya ko pa ding humabol." - AUSTRIA

Austria and Padillo’s

double treat for the Pirate Paddlers

BY JESSICA JANE I. SY With an 8-1 win-loss record in the doubles division, Dominic Clyde Austria and Zyrus Graigbert Padillo became significant in putting LPU Table Tennis Men’s team two ranks higher than their Season 90 finish in the NCAA Table Tennis tournament.

Both taking up Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management Specialized in Cruise Line Operations in Culinary Arts (BSIHMCLOCA), Austria and Padillo played well as partners in the recent tourney.

Aside from table tennis, the two are also focusing on their academic responsibilities to achieve their dreams and help their families. They both value their athletic scholarship grant as a blessing and pays back by being dedicated towards winning in every game.

“Noong natanggap ako sa Lyceum Manila, pinagbubutihan ko talaga dahil lagi kong iniisip, hindi man ako regular student na katulad ng iba, maswerte pa rin ako dahil nagkaroon ako ng chance na makapag-aral dito dahil hindi lahat nabibigyan ng chance na makapag-aral,” Padillo shared.

Padillo is a transferee from University of Perpetual Help System Dalta (UPHSD) in 2014 and needed one year of residency in LPU to play for NCAA. It is his first time to represent LPU in the NCAA.

The pride of Quezon province is motivated by the fact that he is a student-athlete. He values the scholarship, allowance, and sports supplies given to him but he wants to prove to regular students that being a student athlete is also a big responsibility.

Exhausting as it is, the 19-year old athlete is still determined to train every morning before going to class.

“Alam mo ‘yung feeling na gusto pa

ng utak mo pero hindi na kaya ng katawan mo because of over fatigue.”

Alongside Padillo, Las Piñas raised team captain Austria started playing for LPU in 2013. With his leadership skills, he always emphasizes discipline and focus to his teammates.

His positive thinking and prayer time also helped him in winning games.

The 18-year-old athlete shared his thoughts, “Mindset ko lalaban ako hindi lang para sa coach ko, sa pamilya, para sa school din, para sa Lyceum. Sabi ko nga, bilog pa din ang bola kaya ko pa ding humabol”.

Austria and Padillo both believe in God’s time. They may not win the championship now but eventually, God will grant the championship they’re dreaming of if they continue to pursue and work hard for it. As for now, LPU Table Tennis team is working harder to improve and targets to rank even higher next season.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

30

“I came from nothing, [and] turned out into something that I am proud of.”

Flores: Blazing kicks from the new blood

BY JAMES BERNARD S. HERRERA Hailing from the beautiful land of Angat, Bulacan, Aideleen Flores is a young beauty that shouldn't be taken lightly.

Inspired by her love for combat sports, Flores began to train with her friends back in 2010. She then became idle for three years, and returned two years after, now as a part of the LPU Taekwondo Team.

Currently a freshman taking up Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Business Management, she is one of the new generation powerhouses of the Taekwondo team.

According to head coach Brix Ramos, the 18-year old Flores recently joined the Pirates last summer break

31

as a white belt and earned her promotion to be a yellow belt through the rigorous trainings that she went through.

She currently has a record of three gold medals that she garnered outside the NCAA tournament--Smart Taekwondo Muntiparlas, Division Meet, and New Face Taekwondo Championships.

On her first year with the team, she has already earned her first silver medal from the NCAA after defeating three black belters from San Beda College and De La Salle College of Saint Benilde despite her being a yellow belter. Flores shared, “I came from nothing, [and] turned out into something that I am proud of.”

This is just an example on how we should not belittle rookie players.

One may be a newbie in the arena but it will not solely determine the result.

Coach Ramos proudly said that constant training with dedication and passion to the sport is what make magnificent results possible and this is evident in the young jin’s case. Being a student-athlete, Flores’ daily routine is fully packed like most athletes: training in the morning, and going to class right afterwards, while sacrificing hours of rest to make sure no homeworks are left undone. She said that she doesn’t mind the tiring days because productivity is what matters.

Flores is one of those who we should be looking out for inside the ring because she will definitely be giving us more thrilling results which is sure to make the LPU community excited in the next NCAA Season.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

Peñafiel: The Ace Rookie

BY LAUREN IAN MARIE G. MAGTIRA

“The biggest lesson that I have learned in tennis is to never give up.”

It wasn’t the plan. His father wanted him to take up Engineering and it was also his father who insisted for him to learn tennis.

In tennis, he saw his chance to make his parents proud and the sense of community by meeting other passionate players like him.

For Emil Christian Peñafiel, once you’ve decided, there’s no going back. Sometimes, all it takes is to see what the court has in store for you.

Crossroads

The tennis court was like his home. With a learning grip at the age of four, Peñafiel learned the basics.

Life taught him that one thing after another is an opportunity and so he thought that maybe in playing tennis, he’ll get to support his studies.

Incidentally, Jerrick Tenorio – first captain of the Soft and Lawn Tennis team – was at Bicol. Tenorio saw him play and asked for his background.

Peñafiel was then referred to Coach Deena Cruz.

Amazingly, Coach Cruz was at Bicol when Peñafiel was joining a tournament and she saw his potential.

However, the path wasn’t that easy. His father was not delighted when he decided to take up Culinary

Arts but his brother encouraged him to choose his own path.

On conquering milestones

Leaving Camarines Sur, Bicol, a lot of adjustments were needed and although he plays singles, he is more aggressive as a netter so he opted for doubles.

The rookie was paired with former team captain Brian Eusebio in a match against JRU Bombers and nipped the first set. However, Eusebio suffered from cramps in the second set. “Ang mali ko po nun ay minadali ko po kumuha ng points sa kagustuhan na matapos na ang laro para hindi na lumala [ang] sitwasyon ni Brian, but that only led to countless unforced errors,” Peñafiel shared how they lost the next set on that game.

Seeing his partner still determined to win, Peñafiel became more motivated. He remembered, “Wala po akong inisip noon but just to focus and get ready to help my partner [to get] every point”. The third set ended with the score of 6-2 and the pair won.

Peñafiel reflected, “I don’t want [that] to happen again, not just in tennis, but in everything else that I do”.

He also added that being a student-athlete has its downsides, “Hindi madaling maging student-ath-

lete lalo na kung gusto mo rin namang mag-excel”.

The young athlete knows carrying two loads is tough but he strongly believed that he has what it takes to beat his opponents, manage his studies, and it all goes down in believing one’s capabilities. “The biggest lesson that I have learned in tennis is to never give up,” Penafiel said.

The Mindset “Bawat game may natututunan kami,” he emphasized.

The 18-year old athlete was timid during the interview but a sense of determination was felt when he shared that mental toughness is something he needs to improve, same goes for his teammates.

“Kapag may problema, minsan apektado ka eh. Minsan parang gusto mo na lang puro palo. Maraming papasok sa isip mo na dapat tapusin na agad para hindi na mahirapan. Dahil doon, nagmadali kaming kumuha ng puntos,” Penafiel admitted.

He believed that the skills and ability are already present. The real battle comes when he has to fight the pressure, the mindset not to rattle during a match and this can only be done with his continuous efforts in improving his plays.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

32

SHAQ

ATTACK

BY JENNIFER R. ANZANO Maybe having expectations is just too mainstream.

For shooting guard Shaquille Oswald Alanes or mostly known as Shaq Alanes, being lined for this season’s NCAA was never part of his expectations. Neither did he expect that he will become this much of a big deal in the collegiate basketball action.

Upon his enter in LPU, Alanes didn’t actually have plans on joining the university’s Men’s Basketball Team.

What he has in mind was only to study and finish his course, Hotel and Restaurants Administration (HRA).

But having the skills and talent in playing the sport, he was discovered by then assistant coach Chris Brower during one of his games in the Intramurals. Even though he had second thoughts on trying out for the Men’s

33

Basketball Team, Alanes was encouraged by his mother to accept Brower’s offer.

Had he was not encouraged by his mother, we wouldn’t have encountered furious attacks during most of this season’s NCAA, popularly known as the ‘Shaq Attack’.

Before becoming a Pirate

Alanes, at age six, had already found his love for basketball and naturally felt the connection with it.

This key player from Cavite first loved playing basketball because of his father who was also playing the sport. At the same age, he was enrolled to various basketball clinics.

His first experience as a varsity player was during his secondary education at St. Jude College. After

playing for two years, he was recruited

by Emilio Aguinaldo College and was given the chance to play for one year in the NCAA Juniors Division.

After playing for one year as part of team B in the same university, Alanes admitted that he got tired of playing the sport. “Kasi parang paulitulit lang yung ginagawa mo. Simula high school nag-basketball na ako.”

Another reason why he felt the certain way was when he got a knee injury. Though it was not a serious injury, Alanes was easily dispirited.

“Dun ako na-down kasi nung na-injury ako, nag-therapy ako, every time na makakakita ako ng basketball, parang naiiyak ako, bakit ako nagka-injury?”

Alanes asked himself.

This certain event in his life was actually the reason why he entered LPU.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

As a Pirate

Questioning his ability at first, Alanes did not immediately accept Coach Brower’s offer to join the LPU Men’s basketball team not until his mother encouraged him.

The rest is history, so they say.

Alanes tried out for the basketball team and was accepted. But before becoming one of the key players of LPU, he was once a rookie.

He experienced what we call as being ‘bangko’ or bench player. Alanes was a rookie during his first year in the team. The following year, he was lined-up to play for NCAA but was not given much of a playing time.

Because of this, Alanes nearly gave up…for the second time. But because of the people supporting him and believing in his capabilities, Alanes regain his composure and continued his craft.

“Sobrang laki ng tiwala nila sa akin [family] na kayang kaya ko. Kaya kapag umuuwi ako ng Cavite, ayun, nali-lift up ulit ako. Parang, kaya ko pala talaga. Parang, hindi pa ako dapat sumuko dahil marami pang naniniwala sa akin dito.”

“Hindi pa ako dapat sumuko dahil marami pang naniniwala sa akin dito.” de in the first round as the best NCAA experience he ever had.

It was Alanes’ last shot that secured their win against one of the big names in the collegiate action.

Not just having enough physical preparation, Alanes shared that night before the game, he would eat a combination of spaghetti and chicken from a fast food chain and a drink at the side. Though this may not theoretically explain if it really affects his playing game, Alanes said it had become part of his routine.

Best playing time

When the 91st Season of the NCAA opened, came the biggest opportunity for Alanes to show his talent.

Shooting guard Alanes was one of the major score contributors during the first and second rounds of NCAA.

Throughout his NCAA journey, he considers their game against Benil-

What's in his mind

During the actual games, players have certain images playing inside their mind. May that be a trophy or a sweet treat from their coach, those images will surely affect how they play in the court.

As to Alanes, keeping his focus on the game and not thinking about the score are his mindset every game.

He said he needs to find his defense first before anything else.

“Kailangan focused talaga ako. Tsaka, iniisip ko wag muna talaga ako mag-focus sa score. Kailangan talagang makadepensa muna ako kasi dun ko makukuha ‘yung kumpyansa ko,” Alanes shared.

Also, his suspension during their game against Arellano Chiefs in the second round taught him to keep his calm.

If there will be a brighter side to that situation, that would be the moment when he realized how important it is to stay focused and calmed especially that the team relies on him.

“Kailangan maging mature enough para sa team. Kasi minsan sa akin din sila magrerely, diba? ‘Pag nawala ako sa focus, paano na sila?”

Improving himself

Alanes did not just go out of high school and became great in playing the sports. He continuously trained himself in order to master his craft.

However, he admitted that he has just started to change his attitude towards training when he was lined-up for the NCAA. “Nung mga nakaraang taon kasi sobrang kulit ko sa practice eh.

Talagang ang ingay ko, nakikipagkwentuhan ako sa mga teammate ko.

Sobrang daldal ko. Wala ako sa focus,” he said. “Siguro ngayon, after ng season, sabi ko hindi na pwede ‘tong mangyari kasi matagal na ako dito eh.

So kailangan mag-focus kasi kailangan kong maging isa sa mga leader ng team.”

Expectations disappoint

In his four years as a player – including his rookie year – in the LPU Men’s basketball team, he did not have any regrets. He may have started late as a player for the team in the NCAA, he was still happy with the result. Alanes even said that he was happier because the blessings came to him without him expecting it.

“Sobrang saya kasi hindi ko talaga expected. Mas masaya talaga kapag hindi mo expected,” he exclaimed.

We tend to always expect things to happen. There is nothing wrong with that. But expectation without action is nothing. Take Alanes’ story as a reminder that sometimes, great things happen when you least expect it. But greater things happen when you work hard on it.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

34

LPU ATHLETIC TEAM’S COACHES Behind every helm is an experienced man set to give course, make crucial decisions and take responsibility for the crews’ doings. Here, we bring you the head and assistant coaches of our athletic teams, manning every Pirate ship sailing in the tough course this 91st NCAA. BASKETBALL COACHES

TAEKWONDO COACHES

Olongapo’s Michael Christopher “Topex” Robinson is the new head coach of the LPU Pirates Men’s Basketball Team after Coach Bonnie Tan handled the sails for 11 years.

The 40-year-old Robinson was once an NCAA athlete for San Sebastian College-Recoletos Stags and played several years in the Philippine Basketball Association for the teams Red Bull Barakos and Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants.

Upon his retirement, he began his coaching career in 2009 when he became the head coach of his alma-mater, SSC-R. He also serves as current assistant coach for PBA team Alaska Aces.

Alongside him is Coach Jeff Perlas who’s in charge on improving the individual skills of the team players and enhance their capabilities to lead and work as a team.

Back in 2006, Taekwondo head coach Brix Darmo Ramos began his coaching career.

Urged by his father to immerse himself in sports during his early years, the then Muntinlupa youngster chose Taekwondo because of his great interest for it.

Together with his current Assistant Coach Zaldy Bautista Jr., they began their first teaching experience in San Beda College – Alabang, but Ramos was re-assigned as the training coach for De LaSalle – Zobel until present where he is also the head of the college varsity.

In 2012, he was asked to join the Pirates where he started paving the road of our jins to the championship.

On the other hand, Coach Bautista was invited

by Coach Ramos to join in LPU back in 2013 but still remained as a trainer at SBC – Alabang.

Recently, David Arellano—an athletic scholar graduate himself from LPU-- became one of the team’s assistant coaches.

35

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

BADMINTON COACHES

TABLE TENNIS COACHES

SWIMMING COACHES

Back in 2002, Marikina based Coach Chessa Pituk became Brent International School’s assistant coach and teacher aid. Currently, she is the head coach of the LPU swimming team for almost two years now.

In those years, she was able to know the team players well as to their individual differences, interests, and personal needs.

Helping Coach Pituk to train and motivate the players is Assistant Coach Christine Theresa Sudario from San Pablo, Laguna.

Bringing with him his table tennis skills and goal to produce responsible student athletes, Coach Raul Santos started Table Tennis Clinic in LPU on 2009.

During his first few years as a coach LPU had been a pioneering university in the Inter-Scholastic Athletic Association (ISAA) and brought home second place both in men’s and women’s division on 2010.

Aside from LPU, Coach Santos is one of the advisers of Table Tennis Association of the Philippines since January 2014. At present, Coach Santos continues to train the LPU Table Tennis Team not only improving the athletes’ skills but also character development with assistant coach Homber Tiongson who started last June 2015.

LPU Badminton Team Head Coach Ralph Ian Mendez is a 31year old athlete at the Philippine Badminton Association and started coaching at LPU back in 2012. He chose Badminton because he finds the game challenging and has been playing for 16 years.

He has represented the country in international competitions in Asia like Thomas Cup, Uber Cup and Asian Badminton Championship.

Meanwhile, Nelson Bryan Lambino, the kind-hearted 29-year old assistant coach of the LPU Badminton team has been training the LPU Smashers since NCAA Season 90.

He has been competing and playing Badminton since he was 14 years old and it has been his passion since then.

Coach Nelson frankly shared during an interview that it was his “crush’ who inspired him to play the sport but for now he can say that he’s right to choose Badminton because this is where he is at best.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

36

LPU ATHLETIC TEAM’S COACHES

SOFT AND LAWN TENNIS COACHES

PEP SQUAD COACH

Meet Zar Anthony Semsem, the jolly 25-year old coach of the team. He is a cheerleader ever since high school. Back in in his college days, he was part of the leading teams in UAAP Cheerdance Competition, the UP Pep Squad.

His cheerleading journey did not stop there. He has been the LPU Pep Squad’s Gymnastics Coach for four years and now, the team’s head coach, preceding his colleague Patrick Asuncion.

Since it is his first year as the head coach, his main goal for the squad is to have a higher rank in the NCAA.

37

TRACK AND FIELD COACHES

Making the vision of producing calibre national athletes under his supervision, LPU Track and Field Head Coach Reynante Giron keeps on pushing the limit of his players since 2011.

Giron was a former Palarong Pambansa champion and competed in the National Open Track and Field Championship.

Alongside him is Assistant Coach Anselmo De Guzman who is also a former member of Philippine Team during Gintong Alay on Marcos time; together they enhance the skills and develop LPU athletes into complete package.

Head Coach Deena Rose Cruz and Assistant Coach Cheryl Macasera started playing tennis at six and three years old, respectively.

Both grew up joining age group and open tournaments ever since. Eventually, the ladies played as varsity players in their college years.

Cruz learned tennis through her father and when she was still at the National Team, it was her turn to teach the sport. The 32-year old officially began coaching when she formed the LPU Soft and Lawn Tennis team.

On the other hand, the 31year old Macasera gained her degree at Sorsogon State College. She began her coaching career three years ago at Emilio Aguinaldo College and continued here at LPU since then.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

VOLLEYBALL COACHES CHESS COACH

FOOTBALL COACHES

Former United Football League player Randolfo Paolo Clarino aka “Coach Popoy” is on his 11th year as a coach. He started at International School Manila, coaching children.

He began coaching college level back in 2011 with LPU and is still with the Pirates up to present. He is also an assistant coach in the University of the Philippines, Diliman.

The coach focuses in developing the players’ technical abilities for top level football. He also has a philosophy that ‘if the ball is within the team, how can your opponent score?’

Assisting Coach Popoy is an alumnus of the team, Alvin Arañas, 23, from Baguio, Benguet. He was former left wing midfield of the team.

Arañas played with the Pirates for four years until he graduated BS Business Management, batch 2015.

Before the Lyceum Pirates Chess Team concluded their journey in the NCAA last August, their team coach, Christopher Cunanan prepped up their chess boards, pieces and mobile phones with chess strategy apps inside a little room that would be their place in practicing their skills for the upcoming competition.

The goal was simple; to make sure that his players would never come home without a medal or an achievement in their hands. Being empty handed was not on their playbook.

He was strict in terms of time, and how games are carried out, but when it comes to his approach to his players- it was always gentle, optimistic and active. He was giving out the right voice whether it was a win or a loss for each player, especially on how the team went through every tournament.

Though the juice of the battle rests on the hands and skills of the players, the spirit, morale and overall strategy on the battle resides on the mentor.

Emil Lontoc, the 65-year old volleyball legend from Bacoor, Cavite, is LPU Volleyball Team’s head coach for 16 years now.

Before calling plays and giving instructions in the sidelines, Coach Lontoc was once a player as he is part of the Philippine Volleyball Team from 1971 to 1975 and he even coached it after playing.

Coach Lontoc began his coaching career in 1983 with the UST Tigers in UAAP before moving to LPU in 1999. He led LPU in numerous championships in WNCAA where the team made its name first before joining NCAA.

Coach Lontoc’s role was more than in enhancing players’ skills and talents; he also gives motivation and uplifting them through sharing the word of God.

Meanwhile, the very amiable Coach Benjamin Mape from Lucena City, Quezon Province is the assistant coach for LPU Volleyball Team.

Coach Mape was actually a former player of Coach Lontoc in UST from 1992-1997. After his playing career, Coach Mape began coaching in 1997 at St. Francis of Assisi College in Las Piñas up until 1999, and then he started coaching again in 2006 this time with LPU.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

38

39

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

40

41

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

42

Myth Buster: Changing your beliefs about diet

and how to have a healthier lifestyle

BY JOANNA BELLE Z. DEALA

Some people have misconceptions in dieting. Others even think that when a person is ‘on a diet’, he should avoid or skip meals in order to obtain a good shape. Well, that’s not how you do it.

Here are some ways to do proper diet for a healthier lifestyle: 1. Include protein in the list

Protein provides nutrients that build and repair body tissues. For example, eating salmon fish is a good dietary source of Vitamin D which can provide you with protein along with heart-healthy fats such as Omega 3.

However, taking too much protein could actually harm you and put your other bodily system under stress. You should eat the right amount of protein in order to get its health benefits.

with techniques to stay on track with your nutrition plan.

4. Eat slowly

Prolonged chewing helps you reduce the amount of food you eat at mealtime and achieves a sensation of feeling full. According to nutritionists, the slower you eat, the more time you give your body to feel satisfied. Fast eaters gain weight over time than slow eaters.

2. Pack in the fiber

5. Keep hydrated

Fiber can help reduce risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. It also helps both in losing weight and maintaining healthy weight. Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and these also help you have more energy in exercising. Eating fruits and vegetables can provide potassium that helps maintain healthy blood pressure. Nevertheless, intake of fiber depends on your age and how many calories your body needs.

Keeping yourself hydrated is one of the easiest yet overlooked ways in staying healthy. Drinking plenty of water is absolutely necessary for things like muscle and immune system function, joint and brain protection, digestion, and even mood. Neglecting water can lead you to serious condition such as chances of kidney stones, colon cancer, and heart attack. Without the proper water intake, nearly all of our systems won’t function well. An individual can only survive for few days or a week without drinking water.

3. Keep a food diary

Tracking down your meals can keep you focused in your diet and will give insight into many aspect of your eating habits. Jotting down what you eat and drink makes you more aware of what, when, and how much you are consuming. It can also be used to make sure that you are getting the nutrients that you need. You may also consider visiting a dietician. A dietician will be able to monitor your health and diet by means of documenting and evaluating your food. They can also provide your personal meal plan and equip you

43

6. Get enough sleep

We all know that not having enough sleep makes us feel terrible and cranky. Sleep is beneficial in our daily life; it’s just that most of people don’t realize how important it is. Getting enough sleep can protect your mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing, quality of life, and even your safety. However, be careful in oversleeping. Sleeping too much is as bad as not getting enough time of sleep.

Oversleeping may increase your risk in diabetes and heart attack.

7. Do physical activities

Other types of physical activities such as muscle-strengthening, bone-strengthening, and stretching can benefit your body. Doing musclestrengthening such as sit-ups, lifting weights, and push-ups improve the strength, power, and endurance of your muscles. As for bone-strengthening, activities like walking, running, and jumping make your bones strong.

Stretching also benefits your body in terms of flexibility and your ability to fully move your joints.

8. Think positive

We just don’t realize it but positive thinking also produces favorable results to our well-being. It builds up skill, boosts health and improves work. Optimistic people are less likely to suffer from depression and rarely get ill than pessimists. A recent study shows that for every 10 point increase in a person’s score on their optimism scale, the risk of early death decreased by 19%. Thinking positive thoughts is a way to create a healthy perspective.

The word ‘diet’ is not just about shedding fats and achieving good body figure, it is also about positive attitude and proper intake of food in order to have a healthy body. It is necessary for you to know what food to eat, how much you should consume, and how it will affect your body. Either eating more or less still has an effect in the body. Now, ask yourself, are you having a healthy lifestyle?

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

Back to Square

BY MARIZTELA ALYSSA R. DOMASIAN AND JOANNA BELLE Z. DEALA

ONE

Being an athlete is not an easy task. You have to juggle your time from trainings, competition seasons, studying, and still having enough time for personal responsibilities. It can sometimes be stressful, frustrating even. Sometimes, you’re even on the verge of quitting. But here’s your point to go back to the basics.

1.Find your motivation

5. Surpass the negatives

Sometimes all you need to do is to just think about what drives you the most. Is it because of someone? Is it for future career? Some people find this method very motivating because it reminds them on where and how they started.

Others try to set a goal like aiming for a particular rank.

Also, don't forget to thank the people who helped you grow not only as an athlete, but also as an individual. Not only does it feel good, it also motivates you to become a better athlete little by little. It’s the small things that matter.

Bottling up negative emotions will make you a toxic person.

Be mad at the world if you have to; it is not wrong to let your emotions out. However, don’t let it overtake you because it will cause you distraction. By doing this, you will be able to clean out your mind to free up space for the good things.

You’re much likely to achieve your goals when you have a positive mind.

2. Failure is learning

You must determine your reason for joining the team, coming to practice, being diligent in your training, and your purpose of doing such thing. What is your goal and why you want to achieve it? You have to remind yourself why you are working so hard and what keeps you going when things get tough. The reasons behind all these are the ones that are going to get you through.

The saying goes, “If you’ve never failed, you never tried anything new”. You never stop learning and part of this learning is failing. Don’t be afraid of losing or not gaining enough score. Make these failures your lessons and as fuel to do better next time. Accepting that you fail is part of sportsmanship and practicing this virtue makes you a good person inside and outside the court.

3.Be organized Being organized can cause less hassle for you. May it be in your schedule or commitments, it all boils down in being organized and being dedicated in meeting your plans.

Know your schedule. Allot your free time for extra study period. But don’t forget that you are also entitled to have a leisure; just make sure that it doesn’t surpass your responsibilities.

4.Improve your play As an athlete, it is important to know your own strategy and playing style. Even though you started with some moves from your favorite players, you should start developing your own style that you are comfortable with. It is good to emulate somebody but it’s better to have your own style so you can also discover your capabilities. Besides, being comfortable with your own style helps you boost your performance.

6. Know your purpose

7. Challenge yourself Step far outside your comfort zone and attempt something that everyone else thinks is impossible. Face bigger challenges and it will surely help you to grow both physically and mentally. It’s either you win or you lose, at the end of the day, you will feel a greater sense of accomplishment.

It’s time to enter the courage zone.

8. Put your heart into the game You know you can’t lose once you put your heart into everything you do. Put your passion and focus to the game and it will definitely pay off. Once you put your whole heart and soul into it, no one can ever stop you from achieving your goal. Never ever think about losing; claim it, work hard, and the game will be yours.

Being an athlete isn’t just about physical strength but it is also about mental training, emotional stability, and even spiritual development. Overall stability is vital because it will help you focus more on the task at hand. It will help you push yourself forward and overcome that one thing in your head that keeps on stopping you. Prepare, train, don’t stop and you are definitely on your way to achieving your goals.

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

44

SPORTS got reel

BY VENNY LOU G. POSADA

Looking for something to motivate you? Athlete or not, we got a list of some of the most memorable sports films that might just lift your spirit from whatever obstacle you’re facing right now.

Rocky

The Story: From earning several Academy Awards, Rocky depicts a story of the ultimate underdog and his battle with himself along with his opponent, Apollo Creed-- the World Heavyweight Champion.

Rocky fights in clubs and small venues until he gets offered a shot at the heavyweight belt. Rocky fights his way with an unwavering heart much like Rocky Marciano himself who he was named after.

The Lesson: At least for once, we all experienced being the underdog. Rocky represents us as a struggling fighter who will not quit and will grab every chance to have a better life. It shows that we all have different battles; we just have to put a good fight.

The Blind Side

The Story: Based on a true story, the movie features a homeless boy named Michael Oher that was welcomed by Leigh Anne and her conservative family after seeing him aimlessly walking on the streets. As she tries to help Michael, the family also finds new discoveries about themselves.

Michael entered the football scene and became a formidable left tackle. He eventually became an All-American football player and the first-round pick of the NFL draft.

The Lesson: The film teaches us more about the importance of family--love, hope and trust despite the racial barriers. Michael made the change through hard work, focus, and will power that made the change happen.

MILLION DOLLAR BABY

The Story: Aspiring boxer Maggie Fitzgerald asked the help of Frankie Dunn, a veteran boxing trainer. Frankie refuses as he relentlessly told Maggie that he’s not to woman boxing, she’s old and lacks knowledge and skills. Determined Maggie continuously practiced at his gym and was eventually trained by Frankie. Aside from proving herself in the ring, she also fills in the gap on Frankie’s haunting past.

The Lesson: Maggie’s case is an example that it is not too late to learn something that you want. Don’t let regret haunt you for not taking the initiative to do something for your own good.

MIRACLE

The Story: Despite the odds, Herb Brooks gathered a group of college kids for the 1980 USA Hockey team.

Brooks and his team are determined to beat the undefeated Soviet Union in the Olympic Games and take the gold medal.

With Brooks focusing on improving the individual strengths of his players, he was able to make a strong team.

The team lead the pride of US as they won and dubbed the victory as ‘the miracle on ice’.

The Lesson: This movie exhibits a coach that is goal-driven for his job– hard work, not just on ice, but on life.

It shows that life is driven with both hard work and dedication for accomplishing goals and dreams.

hoosiers

The Story: Hoosiers is a film about a lowly high school basketball team and Gene Hackman, unemployed basketball coach.Hackman is convinced that the outcomes of the effort of the team could just be a waste.

Wanting to change the scenario, Hackman continued to train and motivate his team, leading them to the State Championship.

The Lesson: Long term success is built upon continuing values and practices. Hackman showed that persistence and believing in one’s capabilities can produce a winning basketball team.

45

POWERPLAY MAGAZINE

IdleSummer No More

BY MARIZTELA ALYSSA QUIRUBIM R. DOMASIAN

Summer vacation usually calls for family reunions or a trip to the beach. But for some, summer is just that two-month part of the year of having an idle time. Well, summer is just around the corner and here are some activities you can do to make yours productive and fun without actually spending a lot of money while you can also be physically fit!

1. Community Service and Volunteering

4. Go to an adventure

Who needs to go to the beach when you can get that sun-kissed tan you always wanted by helping your community? You can help private and public sectors with some of their programs like feeding the less fortunate children; you can help local schools with the cleaning; and if you’re into sports, you can conduct a sports tutorial in your barangay with your friends.

Recently, camping and hiking trips were on hype. Hiking is a fun way to get a work out, spend time with Mother Nature and signing out from the social media world even for a short time. You can also join youth camps and team building where you can experience outdoor activities while personally meeting new people.

2. Try new hobbies

5. Enter summer jobs

Instead of doing your old summer routine, why not try to do some things you haven’t done before?

Try to get hooked with knitting, cooking, photography, and many more! There are endless selections you can choose from. You can learn from online tutorials and blogs and maybe you can even share your own experiences.

Applying for summer jobs is one way to make your summer not only productive but also financially active. The possibilities are endless depending on your passion or choice. You can start at libraries, restaurants, or even tutorials.

3. Develop your talents

6. Learn a new sport and join a team

Summer season creates an opportunity for you to practice your talents. You can enroll to dance classes to get your body moving and in shape; there are also voice lessons and acting workshops you can go to; or you can practice with the help of some videos and tutorials from the internet. You don’t necessarily have to spend big time.

It’s time to practice what you’ve learned from your Physical Education class! Sports activities are enjoyable and you get to improve your physical state.

Some places offer workshops that teaches you basketball, volleyball, and other sports for just an affordable price — sometimes free. You can also join your schools’ sports teams and attend tryouts and be a member.

TRY-OUT SCHEDULES Volleyball:

Students can just drop by during trainings every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

Track and Field:

Students can just drop by during trainings.

Soft and Lawn Tennis:

Recruitment for the team is open all throughout the year. Those who are inte-

rested can come to the Athletics Department’s office and leave their name and

contact number to be scheduled.

Pep Squad:

Most likely after Finals week of 2nd Semester (as per team Captain Kalvin Mangu

bat) Drum Squad:

Next semester

CONTINUE SUPPORTING OUR TEAMS

NCAA SEASON92!

IN THE